God

Baptist doctrine affirms God as the infinite, eternal, and sovereign Creator, existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. His nature is holy, just, and loving.

3.1. The Nature of God

Baptist doctrine asserts that God is eternal, omnipotent, and omniscient, existing as one God in three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is holy, just, and loving, with attributes such as wisdom, mercy, and grace. God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, sovereign over His universe. His nature is unchanging and perfect, as revealed in Scripture. Baptists emphasize God’s transcendence and immanence, believing He is both above creation and actively involved in human affairs. This understanding of God’s nature forms the foundation of Baptist theology and practice.

3.2. The Trinity

Baptist doctrine affirms the Trinity, recognizing one God in three distinct, coequal, and coeternal persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each person is fully divine, sharing the same attributes and nature. The Father is the Creator, the Son is the Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit is the Sanctifier. While the term “Trinity” is not in Scripture, Baptists believe it accurately reflects biblical teachings. This doctrine underscores the unity and diversity within the Godhead, emphasizing God’s love and redemptive plan. Baptists view the Trinity as central to understanding God’s nature and humanity’s salvation through Christ and the Spirit’s work.

3.3. God’s Sovereignty and Providence

Baptist doctrine emphasizes God’s sovereignty and providence, asserting His supreme authority over all creation and events. God’s providence guides human affairs according to His will, ensuring His purposes are fulfilled. This doctrine underscores His wisdom and love, even in challenging circumstances. While God is sovereign, human responsibility is not diminished; individuals are accountable for their actions. Baptists believe God’s sovereignty and providence bring comfort, knowing He works all things for good and His glory. This truth is foundational for trusting Him and understanding His divine plan.

Man

Man was created in God’s image, possessing dignity and moral responsibility. The fall introduced sin, corrupting humanity and necessitating redemption through Christ.

4.1. Creation in God’s Image

According to Baptist Articles of Faith, man was created in God’s image, reflecting His likeness in dignity, moral responsibility, and capacity for fellowship. Genesis teaches that God formed man from dust, breathing life into him, making him a unique creation. This divine imprint grants humanity inherent value and equality, as all are made in God’s image. The image of God includes rationality, morality, and dominion over creation. While sin marred this image, it was not erased, ensuring human worth and dignity remain foundational to Baptist beliefs about human nature and destiny.

4.2. The Fall and Sin

The Baptist Articles of Faith affirm that humanity fell into sin through Adam’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden, as recorded in Genesis. This act of rebellion introduced sin into the world, resulting in spiritual death and separation from God. Baptists teach that sin is inherent in all people, leading to guilt, condemnation, and a corrupt nature. The Fall necessitated redemption through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need for salvation. Baptists believe sin affects every aspect of human life, requiring divine grace for reconciliation and restoration of fellowship with God.

4.3. Human Nature and Free Will

Baptist Articles of Faith emphasize that humanity, created in God’s image, possesses free will, enabling moral choices. Baptists affirm human nature’s inherent sinfulness due to the Fall, requiring divine grace for salvation. They teach that free will allows individuals to accept or reject God’s offer of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. This doctrine underscores human accountability while acknowledging the necessity of the Holy Spirit’s work in enabling faith. Baptists stress that salvation is a divine gift received through personal repentance and trust in Christ, highlighting the interplay between human responsibility and God’s sovereignty;

Salvation

Salvation is a divine gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ, enabling redemption from sin and eternal life. Baptists emphasize personal repentance and trust in Christ.

5.1; The Atonement

The Baptist Articles of Faith emphasize the atonement as a substitutionary act of divine grace, where Jesus Christ, through His death and resurrection, provided redemption for humanity. Baptists believe that Christ’s sacrifice was a planned act of God to forgive sins, offering reconciliation between God and humanity. This atonement is viewed as the sole basis for salvation, highlighting God’s love and justice. It underscores the belief that salvation is entirely by grace through faith, not by human works. The resurrection of Christ is seen as a triumph over sin and death, giving believers hope and a new life in Him.

5.2. Repentance and Faith

Repentance and faith are inseparable graces wrought by the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to turn from sin and trust in Christ for salvation. Baptists believe repentance involves a deep conviction of guilt and helplessness, leading to a heartfelt turning to God. Faith is a divine gift, rooted in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, through which believers receive forgiveness and eternal life. Together, repentance and faith are essential responses to the gospel, demonstrating a sincere commitment to follow Christ and live according to His will. They are foundational to the Christian life and essential for spiritual transformation.

5.3. Justification and Sanctification

Justification is God’s gracious declaration of righteousness to believers through faith in Christ, apart from works. Baptists affirm that justification is instantaneous, secured by Christ’s atonement, and received through faith alone. Sanctification, however, is a progressive work of the Holy Spirit, transforming believers into Christ’s likeness. It begins at salvation and continues throughout life, enabling believers to grow in holiness and obedience to God’s will. While justification deals with legal standing before God, sanctification focuses on spiritual growth and practical godliness, both essential for a vibrant Christian life and eternal fellowship with God.

The Church

The church is a body of baptized believers established by Christ, functioning under His authority, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to worship, fellowship, and spread the gospel.

6.1. Nature and Purpose

The church, as a body of baptized believers, is divinely instituted by Christ to glorify God through worship, fellowship, and the spreading of the gospel. It functions under the authority of Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, and operates as a visible expression of God’s kingdom on earth. The church’s purpose includes edifying believers through teaching, prayer, and service, while also reaching the lost with the message of salvation. It serves as a community of faith where believers are discipled and equipped for ministry, reflecting the love and redemptive work of Christ in the world.

6.2. Church Membership and Discipline

Church membership is reserved for baptized believers who profess personal faith in Christ, demonstrating a regenerated life. Members are expected to uphold the teachings of Scripture and submit to church authority. Discipline is exercised to maintain purity and integrity within the body, addressing sin and promoting restoration. It is administered by the church in love, aiming to bring the erring member back to a right relationship with God and the congregation. This process reflects the biblical mandate to ensure holiness and accountability among believers, preserving the church’s spiritual health and testimony.

6.3. Officers of the Church

The Baptist Articles of Faith outline the roles of church officers, primarily pastors and deacons, who are chosen based on biblical qualifications. Pastors are responsible for preaching, teaching, and spiritual guidance, while deacons assist in practical ministries and care for the congregation; These officers are selected through a process of nomination and election by the church members, ensuring they meet scriptural standards. Their roles are essential for maintaining order, fostering unity, and advancing the church’s mission. The officers serve as servants of the church, exemplifying Christ-like leadership and humility in their duties. Their ministries are vital to the church’s effective functioning and spiritual growth.

Baptism

Baptism is an act of obedience symbolizing belief in Christ, typically through immersion, publicly declaring faith and identifying with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.

7.1. Definition and Mode

Baptism is defined as an act of obedience to Christ, symbolizing faith in Him through immersion in water. It publicly declares identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, signifying spiritual rebirth. The mode of baptism is immersion, as it vividly represents the believer’s union with Christ and their commitment to a new life in Him. This practice is rooted in biblical teachings and is considered a prerequisite for church membership, emphasizing believer’s baptism as a conscious decision following salvation.

7.2. Prerequisites for Baptism

Baptism requires repentance and faith in Christ, demonstrated through a personal commitment to follow Him. It is reserved for believers who have experienced spiritual regeneration, acknowledging their sinfulness and accepting Christ as Savior. Baptism is not administered to infants but to those capable of making a conscious decision. Candidates must publicly profess their faith, typically through a testimony or statement, ensuring their readiness to live according to Christian principles. This act serves as a public declaration of devotion, solidifying their identity with the church and their commitment to a life transformed by the gospel.

7.3. Baptism and Church Membership

Baptism is a prerequisite for church membership, as it publicly identifies believers with Christ and His church. It symbolizes spiritual regeneration and commitment to follow Him. Baptism unites believers into the body of Christ, fostering fellowship and accountability. Churches require baptism as evidence of salvation before granting membership privileges, ensuring unity in doctrine and practice. This ordinance strengthens the church’s mission and maintains purity in worship and governance, reflecting the believer’s dedication to living according to biblical teachings and community standards.

The Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act commemorating Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, using bread and wine to represent His body and blood, fostering fellowship and covenant renewal among believers.

8.1. Nature and Significance

The Lord’s Supper is a sacred ordinance instituted by Christ, symbolizing His sacrifice and resurrection. It involves the use of bread and wine, representing His body and blood, to commemorate the new covenant. This act serves as a memorial to Christ’s atonement and a means of spiritual fellowship among believers. It fosters unity, reflection, and renewal, emphasizing the believer’s union with Christ and commitment to follow Him. Observed with reverence and joy, the Lord’s Supper proclaims faith in Christ’s redemptive work and hope in His return, while deepening believers’ devotion to God and one another.

8.2. Observance and Prerequisites

The Lord’s Supper is typically observed as a sacred ordinance in Baptist churches, often quarterly, involving the use of bread and the cup. It is a symbol of unity, requiring believers to examine themselves for unworthy participation. Baptized believers in good standing with the church are eligible to partake, emphasizing purity of heart and commitment to Christ. The observance is conducted with solemnity and reverence, reflecting its profound spiritual significance and the fellowship it fosters among believers. Proper preparation and a clear conscience are stressed to honor the ordinance’s sacred nature and symbolic representation of Christ’s sacrifice.

The Family

The family is a divine institution and cornerstone of society, reflecting God’s love and serving as a nurturing environment for faith, moral values, spiritual growth, and mutual support.

9.1. The Institution of Marriage

Marriage is a divine institution ordained by God, as stated in Genesis 2:24, uniting one man and one woman in a lifelong, sacred union. It reflects God’s divine design for companionship, procreation, and mutual support. Baptists believe marriage is a covenant before God, symbolizing Christ’s relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:22-23). It is foundational for a stable society and serves as a nurturing environment for spiritual growth, accountability, and the upbringing of children in the fear of the Lord, emphasizing faith, love, and fidelity.

9.2. Roles and Responsibilities

Baptist teachings emphasize distinct yet complementary roles within marriage, rooted in biblical principles. Husbands are called to love and lead with sacrificial care, providing for their families and honoring their wives (Ephesians 5:25-30). Wives are encouraged to support and respect their husbands, fostering a Christ-centered partnership (Ephesians 5:22-24). Both are to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ, maintaining unity and mutual respect. These roles reflect God’s design for harmony and accountability within the marital covenant, promoting a balanced and grace-filled relationship that glorifies Him and benefits the family and church community.

Civil Government

Baptist doctrine affirms civil government as divinely appointed for societal order and human well-being, with magistrates deserving prayerful support, reflecting God’s providential care over nations and communities.

10.1. Divine Appointment and Purpose

Baptist doctrine emphasizes that civil government is divinely appointed by God for the maintenance of order, justice, and the common good of society. Scriptures teach that governmental authority is a sacred trust, with rulers serving as ministers of God for the benefit of all people. The purpose of civil government includes punishing the wicked, protecting the righteous, and promoting peace and morality. Baptists believe that governments derive their authority from God and are accountable to Him, while Christians are called to pray for and honor their leaders, engaging responsibly within the civic framework.

10.2. Christian’s Responsibility

Christians are called to honor and pray for civil authorities, recognizing their divine appointment. Baptists believe in submitting to lawful governance while advocating for justice and morality. They are to actively engage in civic responsibilities, such as voting and community service, to promote the common good. The Christian’s role includes being a positive influence, upholding ethical standards, and supporting leaders in their God-ordained duties. By doing so, believers fulfill their biblical mandate to be salt and light in society, ensuring that divine principles guide human governance and foster a harmonious and righteous community. This dual commitment to faith and civic duty reflects their loyalty to both God and country.

Last Things

Baptist Articles of Faith emphasize belief in the resurrection, final judgment, and eternal destinations of heaven or hell. They also affirm the Second Coming of Christ as a glorious event ushering in eternal reign.

11.1. Resurrection and Judgment

Baptist Articles of Faith affirm the resurrection of all humanity, with believers rising to eternal life and unbelievers facing judgment. Resurrection is a bodily transformation, not merely spiritual. Believers, justified by faith in Christ, will stand before God, their works examined but salvation secured. The judgment separates the righteous, who inherit eternal life, from the wicked, destined for eternal punishment. This doctrine underscores accountability and the final triumph of God’s justice, urging believers to live faithfully and share the Gospel with urgency.

11.2. Heaven and Hell

Baptist Articles of Faith teach that heaven is the eternal dwelling place of the redeemed, where believers fellowship with God in perfect harmony. It is a place of unending joy, peace, and glory, prepared by Christ for His followers. Conversely, hell is the eternal separation from God, a place of punishment for the unbelieving. Both are literal and eternal states, emphasizing the reality of eternal consequences. Believers are assured of heaven through faith in Christ, while the unbelieving face the judgment of hell, highlighting the urgency of salvation and the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus.

11.3. The Second Coming of Christ

Baptist Articles of Faith affirm the literal, bodily, and glorious Second Coming of Christ. This event marks the ultimate triumph of God over evil and the fulfillment of His eternal plan. Believers are encouraged to live in anticipation of this day, striving to remain faithful and holy. The Second Coming will bring final judgment for the unbelieving and glorification for the redeemed. It serves as a source of hope and motivation for believers to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that Christ’s return will usher in His eternal kingdom, where righteousness and peace will reign supreme.

Loyalty to Baptist Doctrines

Baptist believers are committed to maintaining and promoting Baptist doctrines, ensuring fidelity to biblical teachings and unity in faith. This loyalty strengthens their collective witness.

12.1. Distinctive Baptist Principles

The Baptist faith is defined by several distinctive principles that set it apart from other Christian denominations. These include believer’s baptism by immersion, religious freedom, the priesthood of all believers, and the autonomy of the local church. Baptists emphasize the authority of Scripture, individual soul liberty, and the importance of voluntary cooperation in fulfilling the Great Commission. These principles are deeply rooted in biblical teachings and are essential to maintaining the integrity and unity of the Baptist faith. Adherence to these doctrines ensures that Baptist churches remain faithful to their historical and theological foundations.

12.2. Unity in the Baptist Faith

Unity within the Baptist faith is rooted in shared beliefs and a commitment to biblical teachings. Baptists emphasize the authority of Scripture, salvation through faith in Christ, and the importance of baptism and the Lord’s Supper as unifying practices. Despite diversity in expression, Baptists are united by core doctrines and a shared mission to spread the Gospel. The principles of soul competency and the priesthood of believers foster unity by respecting individual conscience while maintaining collective responsibility. Cooperative ministries and a commitment to the Great Commission further strengthen Baptist unity, ensuring a harmonious and effective witness to the world.